Psoriatic Arthritis

Psoriatic arthritis is a lifelong condition that causes deterioration, pain, and stiffness in the joints.  Some people experience only joint problems and never develop psoriasis.  About 70% of people who getting psoriatic arthritis, develop psoriasis first.

  Psoriatic arthritis most commonly involves the fingers and toes. Joints in the neck, back, knees, ankles, and other areas also may be affected. In addition to being painful and stiff, the involved areas usually feel hot. Affected joints tend to have a purplish discoloration.

Early Signs

Early warning signs of psoriatic arthritis include hand pain, foot pain, and "tennis elbow." These early warning signs may be overlooked if psoriasis lesions are not present. Other indications are shoulder, neck, or back pain. 

Symptoms

• The red, inflamed skin of psoriasis.
• Pain and swelling in the joints that is worse in the morning or after rest. Stiffness lessens

with activity

• Sausage-like appearance in the affected fingers and toes (in severe cases.)
• Pitting (small indentations on the nail) or the nails may be pulling away from the nail beds
• Nails may have ridges or a yellowish-orange discoloration.

Ayurvedic view

Psoriasis is considered as the vitiation of Vata and Kapha. (Two of the basic energies/humors, which maintains our body equilibrium) Accumulation of low potency poisons (Dooshi vishas), are the basic pathological changes taking place in the system. Irregular food habits, consumption of foods that cannot be eaten together (Eg: diary products with fish), excessive intake of yogurt, black gram, seafood, sour and salted items etc can activate the pathogenesis. Alcohol and tobacco consumption will act as a catalyst here. Ayurveda do emphasize on the effect of stress in the pathogenesis of Psoriasis.

Ayurvedic Treatment for Psoriatic Arthritis:

Psoriasis according to Ayurveda, aims at the detoxification of the body. It is achieved by "Panchakarma" treatments and following a strict diet regime. Yogurt, black gram, chilies and salted thing have to be restricted. It is better to avoid refrigerated/chilled foods.